Work to start on the Martin Bridge in Taree

Work to start on the Martin Bridge in Taree

12 May 2014

Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead today announced that work to install a new traffic safety barrier on Martin Bridge at Taree will start on Sunday 25 May.

Mr Bromhead said Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) carried out consultation with the local community about the project in March and considered feedback to determine how the installation of the safety barrier would be delivered.

"The feedback about timing of work has helped RMS determine the best way to install the barrier with minimal inconvenience to the community who rely on access to the bridge," Mr Bromhead said.

"The second option has been selected with shorter blocks of night work, reducing the noise impact for residents and longer blocks of day work from a barge, which does not require lane closures.

"The timing for this option also works best around school and public holidays."

The first block of night work is scheduled to start on Sunday 25 May and will be carried out from Sunday to Thursday between 7pm and 4am to minimise disruption to motorists. It is expected this block of work will finish in late June, weather permitting.

The bridge will remain open during night work with changed traffic conditions including single lane closures and reduced speed limits. Traffic control will be in place to direct motorists.

The second block of work will take place during the day from late June, with exact timing to be confirmed. This work will take place on weekdays from 7am to 5pm with no impact on motorists, although an exclusion zone will be in place for watercraft.

Every effort will be made to minimise noise associated with the work.

Mr Bromhead said the work is required to meet bridge and B-double route standards, reduce future damage to the bridge and address maintenance needs.